What Chores at What Age?
July 22, 2010
We are often asked at what age should children start doing chores?
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us;
establish the work of our hands for us—
yes, establish the work of our hands.
Psalm 90:17
Disclaimer: Every family is different. Children within a single family are different. Families have different seasons of life. So when referring to any chore chart use your own discretion and remember it is simply a guideline. 
A cheerful heart is good medicine,
but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
Proverbs 17:22
2-3 Year Old
At this age it is mostly about encouraging a good attitude as they work along side of you. Make sure they do not hear YOU complain about the work; your attitude is contagious!
Do everything without complaining or arguing…
Philippians 2:14
- Make the Bed
- Pick Up Toys
- Feed and Water Pets
- Dust -without cleaners
- Mop in areas with help.
- Mommy’s Helper- “bring mommy a diaper”
- Putting Clothes in the Hamper
- Fold Washcloths
- Match Socks
- Carry Lightweight Groceries in from Car
Ages 4 and 5
All of the above but slowly give them more freedom in doing the chores without you by their side. As they get older expect them to improve on their ability to do it well. You are still focusing on a cheerful attitude.
Ages 6-8
- All the above
- Vacuum
- Mop
- Wash Dishes
- Take Trash Out
- Fold and Put Laundry Away
- Set and Clear the Table
Ages 9-12
- All the above
- Wash Car
- Vacuum Car
- Wash Windows
- Help Prepare Meals
- Clean the Bathroom
- Yard Work – Mow, Weed,
- Wash/Dry Clothes
- Gardening
Ages 13-17
By 13 most children should be able to any of the jobs in the house, and do them well.
Start adding some adult responsibilities:
- Make a Budget
- Plan Meals
- Cooking
- Make a Shopping List
- Ironing
- Clean Refrigerator
- Check Oil in the Car
- Check Air Pressure in Tires
- Change Light Bulbs
Remember you are wanting to raise up competent adults who are not afraid of responsibility. Start them young and slowly expect more.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart,
as working for the Lord, not for men.
Colossians 3:23
Topics: chores | 1 Comment »
Comments (1)
Thank you! Great list. Now that I have 5 children helping with chores, we can get so much more accomplished in a small amount of time. It’s wonderful. Just this morning, I observed two of them working on their chores together, cheerfully helping each other as a team.